A Case of Peanut Aspiration: Double Whammy

Abstract

Pediatric foreign body aspiration remains a significant health hazard with potentially severe complications and fatal outcomes. We present case of a 14-month-old child who developed two severe complications: post obstructive pulmonary edema and acute respiratory distress syndrome with a very protracted 59-day hospital course after choking on a peanut. It required a multidisciplinary approach and use of cryoprobe to remove the foreign body which was challenging due to its location and severe respiratory instability. Although both these complications have been individually described after foreign body aspiration, this is the first case report of these in same patient. This case highlights the decision-making algorithm and use of an uncommon approach to remove peanut in a worst case scenario. It emphasizes the need for continued outreach to improve awareness of choking hazards in pediatric population.